Nadzab Airport serves Lae, Papua New Guinea's second city and main access point to the country's northeastern region.
Located approximately 40 km from Lae's city center, it is the departure point for the central highlands, rainforests, and World War II historical sites (Kokoda Track).
How to get to Lae Nadzab Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to LAE
Parking near Lae Nadzab Airport
The parking, not large, is positioned in front of the terminal.
Rates reflect typical standards of the region.
How to get to Lae from LAE
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Lae Nadzab Airport
Some car rental companies have a counter in the arrivals area.
Basic documents are a driving license, passport, and credit card, plus an IDP in most cases.
Hotels near Lae Nadzab Airport
Lae city
40-90 minutes by car or hotel shuttle covering the roughly 40 km that separate Nadzab from downtown Lae; no regular public bus service for visitors, you travel by taxi or private transfer organised by the property.
Best for: Anyone passing through Nadzab: it's the only area of the city with verifiable hotels, about 40 km and 40-90 minutes from the terminal.
- The region's only properties with international or near-international standards are here, not at the airport
- Lae City Hotel is in the heart of Top Town, a few minutes on foot from the offices and restaurants of the centre
- Whichever hotel you choose, the transfer from Nadzab remains at least 40 minutes, often longer
- Outside the hotels, evening life on foot is limited, especially outside the centre
Recommended hotels
- Lae City Hotel On 3rd Street, in the heart of Lae's Top Town, a few steps from the offices and restaurants of the centre; spacious rooms and a restaurant with Asian and Western cuisine praised by guests. View availability
- Huon Gulf Hotel On Markham Road, in an area with an industrial character about 20 minutes on foot from the Lae golf course; outdoor pool, garden and a restaurant with international cuisine. View availability
- Butibam Transit Home Lae About 10 minutes from the centre, in the village of Butibam, with transfer included to and from Nadzab and to downtown; a quiet setting with pool and tropical garden, designed for those arriving tired from a long flight. View availability
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal is compact, consistent with its role as the country's second airport hub.
For flights, plan for 2 hours buffer before departure.
Map of Lae Nadzab Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. What is the Kokoda Track?
A famous trekking trail through jungle and mountains, the site of a historic Second World War campaign, which starts in the Lae/Owers' Corner area and is today one of the most demanding and iconic hikes in the Pacific.
Q. Can I get a Papua New Guinea visa on arrival in Lae?
No, visa-on-arrival issuance is now very limited: the Visitor Entry Permit must be applied for online in advance, always checking the updated requirements on the official immigration website before departure.
Q. Is it worth arranging transfers in advance?
Yes, strongly recommended through your hotel or tour operator, given the distance from the centre and the general safety recommendations for the country.
Q. Is Lae a good starting point for the central highlands?
Yes, it's the main gateway to the north-eastern region of Papua New Guinea, including the highlands and trekking areas.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights